From Siege To Survival Exploring The Multi-Faceted Traumas of Meranao Internally Displaced Persons

IOER INTERNATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH JOURNAL, VOL. 6, NO.
1, MARCH 2024
FROM SIEGE TO SURVIVAL: EXPLORING THE MULTI-FACETED

TRAUMAS OF MERANAO INTERNALLY DISPLACED PERSONS
MARY RACHELLE R. WAPAÑO1, SORAIMIE P DAGALANGIT-PUNDATO2

mwapano@xu.edu.ph1, soraimiedagalangit@gmail.com2
https://orcid.org/0000-0002-4803-10041, https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0449-27812
National Commission on Muslim Filipinos
Philippines
DOI: https://doi.org/10.54476/ioer-imrj/663097
ABSTRACT
The 2017 Marawi Siege in the southern Philippines resulted not only in a city's physical devastation but
also in a profound psychological impact on its internally displaced residents, mainly from the Meranao
community. This research aims to understand the trauma endured by these Meranao IDPs, linking it with
paradigms of forced migration, cultural displacement, and post-conflict collective memory. Using the
American Psychiatric Association's definition of trauma and Herman's Trauma Theory as a guiding
framework, six IDP survivors from the Sagonsongan area were interviewed. The study adopted the
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) approach to explore the participants' experiences. This
qualitative method involves a detailed examination of personal lived experiences, attempting to understand
how individuals make sense of their major life experiences. The IPA approach was particularly suitable for
this study as it allowed the researchers to examine the personal stories of trauma, providing a rich and
detailed first-person account of the psychological struggles faced by the Meranao IDPs. The data collection
involved in-depth, semi-structured interviews that enabled the participants to share their stories in a flexible
yet comprehensive manner. The interviews were transcribed verbatim and analyzed following the
principles of IPA, which involve a cyclical process of reading and re-reading the transcripts, coding for
themes, and looking for connections between themes across the different narratives. The researchers
remained cognizant of their preconceptions and engaged in a reflective process to minimize bias. The
findings revealed several themes, such as the traumatic implications of familial dislocation, economic
hardships, persistent trauma, feelings of exhaustion, and a compromised sense of safety. These findings
not only intersect with established theories but also provide unique insights into the Meranao community's
post-siege challenges. The trauma narratives contributed to a nuanced account of the Meranao IDPs'
psychological struggles after the siege.
Keywords: Meranao community, internally displaced persons, Marawi Siege, trauma
landscape of devastation. While the physical

INTRODUCTION wreckage has been well-documented, the
The 2017 Marawi Siege, an intense five-month profound psychological toll on its internally
urban conflict in the southern Philippines, displaced residents, predominantly from the
transformed the once vibrant city of Marawi into a Meranao community, has been less explored. This
P – ISSN 2651 - 7701 | E – ISSN 2651 – 771X | www.ioer-imrj.com
WAPANO, M.R.R, DAGALANGIT, S.P., From Siege to Survival: Exploring the Multi-faceted Traumas of Meranao
Internally Displaced Persons, pp.121 - 133
121
IOER INTERNATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH JOURNAL, VOL. 6, NO. 1, MARCH 2024
study seeks to understand the nuanced trauma terms of loss, displacement, and post-conflict
experienced by the Meranao IDPs, contextualizing challenges?"
it within the broader paradigms of forced migration, Trauma, as defined by the American
cultural displacement, and post-conflict collective Psychiatric Association (2013), is an individual's
memory. emotional response to an extremely negative
This investigation explored the traumatic event, with potential physical and emotional
experiences and subsequent recovery processes manifestations. This study's framework draws
of the Meranao community's internally displaced heavily on Herman's Trauma Theory (1992) which
persons (IDPs) in the aftermath of the Marawi categorizes traumatic experiences into:
Siege, utilizing the conceptual framework provided 1. Immediate Trauma Responses: Exploring
by Judith Herman's Trauma Theory (1992). The the direct aftermath of the Marawi Siege,
findings delineated that the Meranao IDPs' capturing survival instincts, immediate
reactions to witnessing violence, and the
reactions and adaptations post-siege were
abrupt displacement.
congruent with Herman's articulated stages. 2. Long-Term Trauma Effects: Investigating
Immediately following the siege, displayed the lingering psychological impact,
responses were characterized by pronounced including potential symptoms resembling
shock, disbelief, and pervasive fear, aligning with post-traumatic stress disorder (APA,
Herman's initial stage of trauma. This immediate 2013).
reaction encapsulated the profound sense of 3. Recovery: Examining the Meranao IDPs'
journey of healing, coping mechanisms,
helplessness often associated with traumatic
and attempts at rebuilding their lives.
events. As time progressed, persistent traumatic
effects became evident. These long-term Central to the research is the voice of the
implications, marked by vivid recollections, Meranao IDPs, with Herman's Trauma Theory
emotional detachment, and societal disruptions, guiding the study to form a comprehensive,
resonated with the second stage of Herman's culturally sensitive depiction of trauma, its
theory, suggesting a profound alteration in repercussions, and potential recovery routes.
participants' perceptions of self, environment, and Utilizing the foundational concept of trauma as
interpersonal dynamics articulated by the APA (2013), this study engaged
The Meranao, with their rich cultural heritage, with six IDP survivors from the Sagonsongan area,
were compelled to abandon not only their homes using online interviews via Zoom. Their narratives
but also their deep-rooted traditions, cultural shed light on the complexities of their trauma
landmarks, and core elements of their identity. The experiences. In understanding the experiences of
trauma they endured during the siege was a Marawi Siege survivors, this research is guided by
complex intersection of violence, loss, subsequent three pivotal theories. Notably, the Interactional
displacement, and life in makeshift evacuation Model of PTSD, proposed by Shalev, Bonne, &
centers. At its core, their suffering encapsulates Eth (1996), offers an understanding of the trauma
the loss of a culturally safe space, economic experienced by IDPs. This model elaborates on
stability, and the fundamental security of 'home'. the intricate interplay of factors affecting PTSD,
Given the Marawi Siege's significant socio-cultural including pre-traumatic vulnerabilities, event
ramifications, a primary question arises: "How do characteristics, and post-traumatic maintenance
the internally displaced persons (IDPs) from factors.
Marawi City articulate and interpret their trauma in
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This study explored the Meranao IDPs' lived Maranao community, following the 2017
experiences post-Marawi Siege, we opted for Marawi Siege. The methodology was anchored in
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) as Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA),
it allows researchers to in explore the individual chosen for its ability to provide a detailed and
narratives, offering interpretative insights, and nuanced understanding of the participants' lived
emphasizing personal idiosyncrasies. IPA's experiences. This section delineates the
nuanced approach allowed for a contextual methodological framework, participant selection
understanding of the trauma, recognizing both the rationale, data collection procedures, and analytic
socio-political intricacies of the siege and the strategies undertaken to fulfill the research
cultural significance of concepts like "maratabat" objectives.
within the Meranao community. Utilizing Six IDPs from the Sagonsongan Temporary
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) Shelter in Marawi's Sagonsongan barangay were
allowed for a careful examination of the Marawi engaged in this study. This shelter, spanning 9.27
Siege survivors' experiences, especially the hectares, was purposefully constructed, taking into
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). This account the cultural requirements of the Maranao
approach was chosen for its ability to grasp the IDPs. Eligible participants were between the
nuanced lived experiences of participants and applied to individuals not originally from Marawi
provide depth to the specific context (Smith & City or Lanao del Sur, non-Muslims, those outside
Osborn, 2008). the Meranao tribe, and IDPs outside the
Sagonsongan Temporary Shelter. A participant
OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY count of six was deemed optimal for achieving
depth in qualitative research (Creswell & Poth,
This study aims to explore the Meranao IDPs' 2018), especially as data approached saturation.
lived experiences post-Marawi Siege using An iterative interview schedule was developed
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to and reviewed by the research advisor for
delve into individual narratives and provide alignment with study objectives. To guarantee
interpretative insights; gain a contextual clarity, questions were translated to Maranao and
understanding of the trauma experienced by the then back-translated to English, a method
IDPs, acknowledge the socio-political complexities recognized for ensuring linguistic and conceptual
of the siege and the cultural importance of equivalence (Brislin, 1989). Ethical standards,
concepts like "maratabat" within the Meranao informed by the WHO (2011) guidelines, were
community; and to carefully examine the adhered to, including obtaining approvals from the
experiences of Marawi Siege survivors, with a IREB, ensuring participant confidentiality, and
focus on the Internally Displaced Persons, in a way piloting the interview process. During the
that captures the nuanced and contextualized interviews, which were conducted via video call,
lived experiences of the participant. informed consent for recording was secured. The
resulting data was transcribed and translated.
METHODOLOGY The present study employed Interpretative
Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) as a
This study employed a qualitative research methodological approach to conduct an in-depth
design to explore the traumatic experiences of examination of the lived experiences of Internally
Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from the Displaced Persons (IDPs) inside the Meranao
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community. The methodological approach resulting from involuntary separations from
adhered to a meticulously defined sequence of their families. This is underscored by a
procedures. In the initial phase, qualitative data participant's account: "Suddenly, our paths
were collected via interviews, observations, or diverged. An overwhelming distance separated
other pertinent methods. The unprocessed data me from my parents." This emotional strain is not
were subsequently transcribed exactly as they unique to the Meranao community; it is mirrored in
were spoken, to enable a thorough study. The broader psychological literature. According to
transcriptions were thoroughly reviewed and Bowlby (1988), involuntary separations, especially
analyzed by the researchers through several from primary caregivers, can precipitate profound
readings, during which they made initial emotional upheaval. Bowlby's seminal work on
observations and took notes. The preliminary attachment theory posits that such separations
examination resulted in the discovery of emerging can have long-term detrimental effects on
patterns, with a focus on both descriptive and psychological well-being. This finding is also
conceptual aspects. To enhance the depth of the supported by Ainsworth et al. (1978), who
research, an exploration was conducted to identify emphasized the significance of early bonding and
connections among the emergent themes, thereby its implications for psychological adjustment in
uncovering patterns, similarities, and differences. later life. Furthermore, Herman (1992) highlighted
Consequently, a narrative account was that traumatic events, especially those severing
constructed, integrating the various topics to offer close familial ties, can instigate a range of
a comprehensive and insightful portrayal of the emotional disturbances.
real-life encounters of the participants in the study.
Ultimately, the emergent themes were subjected 2. The Economic Toll of Trauma: Financial
to validation and interpretation through a process Impediments in the Wake of the Marawi
of cross-referencing with the original data, so Siege
assuring the dependability and validity of the
The siege's financial repercussions for the IDPs
obtained conclusions (Smith & Osborn, 2003). were profound. The narratives illuminated not just
tangible losses, but a seismic shift from financial
RESULTS stability to post-siege economic desolation.
Beyond immediate economic ramifications, the
In the wake of the Marawi Siege, the lived siege disrupted primary sources of livelihood.
experiences of the Meranao Internally Displaced Jacobsen (2002) outlined the hardships faced by
Persons (IDPs) manifest across several thematic populations suddenly reliant on external aid,
dimensions. Four salient themes emerged from emphasizing the multidimensional adversities
this study, each shedding light on the profound confronting them. Studies such as those by
implications of trauma on the community. The Bhattacharya & Innes (2002) have also chronicled
themes are as follows: the economic hardships and their broader social
implications on displaced communities. In a similar
1. Traumatic Implications of Familial vein, Czaika and Kis-Katos (2009) have
Dislocation underlined the ripple effects of conflict on the
economic fabric of affected regions, emphasizing
Following the Marawi Siege, survivors long-term financial ramifications.
experienced profound trauma, particularly
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3. Persisting Trauma: Interplay of Fear, Safety and security were paramount
Anxiety, and Lost Pride concerns in the aftermath of the Siege for the
Maranao community. The pervasive feelings of
The siege's aftereffects persistently haunt vulnerability were compounded when civilians
the survivors. The Meranao's revered "maratabat" were indiscriminately targeted based on religious
was especially tested post-siege, as societal affiliations. Eriksson et al. (2013) expounded on
stereotypes associated them with extremist the psychological implications of such threats,
groups. Porter and Haslam (2005) underscored detailing how the lack of safety can exacerbate
the compounded mental health challenges trauma symptoms in civilian populations. This is in
displaced populations face due to stigma and line with Steel et al.'s (2009) findings, which
discrimination. The echoes of the siege continue outlined the severe repercussions of security
to induce symptoms resonant with the findings of threats on civilian mental well-being. Another
Steel et al. (2009), who identified persistent study by Basoglu et al. (2001) found that a
anxiety among conflict survivors. This is further heightened perception of threat post-
reinforced by Betancourt et al. (2010), who displacement, especially due to conflict, leads to
documented the emotional and psychological exacerbated psychological distress among
repercussions faced by conflict-affected survivors.
communities. In summary, the Meranao IDPs confronted an
4. Trauma Manifested as Exhaustion array of traumas in the aftermath of the siege, from
profound economic challenges to deeply personal
struggles around safety. This multifaceted nature
Post-siege, many survivors experienced
of their traumas, when juxtaposed against the
exhaustive symptoms, which seemed to erode
backdrop of the Meranao community's unique
both their physical and emotional resilience. A
cultural and social fabric, offers a complex yet
participant expressed, that "the Siege sapped our
compelling narrative of their post-siege
very essence." Such comprehensive exhaustion is
experiences.
not isolated to this incident. Victor (2008) drew
attention to the nexus between trauma and
6. Interconnections between Themes
displacement, underlining how they often
culminate in multifaceted exhaustion. Similarly, The assessment of the participants'
Olanrewaju (2018) pointed out the interconnection experiences underscores the intricate interplay
between trauma and fatigue, highlighting its and overlap of the identified themes. The
manifestation both physically and emotionally. intersectionality of trauma elucidated by scholars
Notably, Miller and Rasmussen (2010) expanded such as Crenshaw (1989) reinforces how multiple
on this by emphasizing that the continuous strain facets of an individual's identity and experiences
of trauma, especially within conflict zones, can can intersect, amplifying the effect of traumatic
lead to profound psychological and physical experiences. For instance, the theme "Traumatic
fatigue. Implications of Familial Dislocation" does not
operate in isolation; it profoundly intersects with
5. Trauma Stemming from Absence of Security
"Persisting Trauma: Interplay of Fear, Anxiety, and
and Safety
Lost Pride." Miller and Rasmussen (2010)
conducted a study that aimed to bridge the gap
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between trauma-focused and psychosocial and security concerns post-siege also reflect
approaches to understanding and addressing the findings of displacement studies (Roberts,
mental health needs in conflict and post-conflict Browne, & Ocaka, 2011). However, the
settings. The study found that disrupted familial uniqueness of the Meranao's experiences
ties due to war exposure have a cascading effect underscores the intersectionality of cultural,
on an individual's mental health, leading to religious, and socio-economic determinants in
increased daily stressors and decreased social shaping their post-siege realities.
support. The study also highlighted the need for a
comprehensive approach to mental health
interventions in conflict and post-conflict settings DISCUSSION
that address both trauma-focused and
psychosocial frameworks. Concurrently, the The primary aim of this research was to deeply
economic toll of trauma, while primarily economic, understand and interpret the experiences of the
can be perceived in light of Maslow's (1943) Meranao community's internally displaced
hierarchy of needs, where the deprivation of basic persons (IDPs) in the aftermath of the Marawi
financial means can exacerbate feelings of Siege. Central to the findings were narratives filled
insecurity and vulnerability. with tales of suffering both during and after the
siege. These narratives presented a community
7. Variability and Nuances grappling with profound loss, while also seeking
Consistent with the tenets of qualitative solace and meaning in their shared experiences.
research, dominant themes are reflective of the These accounts underscore the importance of
collective sentiment, but individual nuances are investigating such events deeply. Moreover, by
invaluable. For instance, while most participants delving into their narratives, this study sought to
associated the siege with "trauma manifested as give voice to the often marginalized IDP
exhaustion," some narratives echoed the population.
resilience theories postulated by Masten (2001),
suggesting inherent abilities to adapt and Interpretation of Key Themes. In analyzing
overcome adversity. These outlier perspectives, the narratives, three prominent themes emerge
related of Tedeschi and Calhoun's (2004) post- that elucidate the Meranao IDPs' emotional and
traumatic growth theory, underscore potential psychological trajectory following the Marawi
growth or positive psychological change ensuing Siege, encompassing immediate reactions,
from the struggle with traumatic events. enduring impacts, and the multifaceted process of
recovery.
8. Integration with Theory
Immediate Trauma Responses. The
The trauma stemming from familial immediate reactions following the Marawi Siege
dislocation parallels Bowlby's attachment theory, were felt by the IDPs, leading to a cascade of
accentuating the inherent need for a secure emotional responses. The emotions of shock,
attachment for psychological well-being. Yet, the disbelief, and heightened fear were not merely
narratives here enrich this understanding, reactive but also emblematic of the profound
shedding light on the unique challenges faced by bonds the community shared with their
the Meranao community. Economic repercussions environment and each other. These initial
126
reactions did not occur in isolation; they were processes. However, amid this complexity,
intertwined with the profound grief stemming from the enduring spirit of unity, the unwavering faith,
the loss of homes, cherished memories, and the and the power of communal bonds showcased the
traumatic rupturing of family units. Such Meranao community's inherent resilience, offering
experiences accentuate how vital geographic and hope for a brighter, more peaceful future.
familial connections were to the Meranao
community's sense of identity and belonging. The Integration with Existing Literature. The
abrupt dissolution of these anchor points is likely experiences of the Meranao IDPs bear strong
to have destabilized their sense of self and the resemblances to Judith Herman's Trauma Theory
world around them, magnifying the trauma's (1992). Their tales can be mapped clearly onto
immediacy. Herman's delineated three stages of trauma. Yet,
while Herman's theory offers a framework, the
Long-Term Trauma Effects. While the siege's IDPs' experiences breathe life into the theory,
immediate effects were profoundly disorienting, providing it with unique cultural contours. The
the ensuing psychological aftermath revealed a stigmatization faced by the IDPs further aligns with
deeper, more complex layer of trauma. Narratives Yehuda's work (2002) on trauma exacerbation due
painted a picture of long-standing haunting to external societal factors. This confluence
memories, a palpable sense of alienation, and an between theory and lived experiences can guide
almost grieving-like response to the disruptions of more effective, culturally resonant interventions.
time-honored cultural traditions. These long-term The narratives of the Meranao IDPs not only
effects were more than mere individual reactions; resonate with extant literature but also contribute
they reflected a collective trauma that threatened a distinct layer of understanding to it. The
the very essence of Meranao community identity. alignment of their experiences with Judith
The sustained nature of these emotional and Herman's Trauma Theory (1992) serves as a
psychological aftershocks speaks to the profound testament to the universality of certain trauma
impact the siege had on both individual and reactions and recovery processes. Herman's
collective psyches, emphasizing the magnitude of three-stage model of trauma – encompassing
the trauma inflicted and the indomitable spirit immediate responses, enduring effects, and
required to navigate its aftermath. recovery – offers a lens through which the IDPs'
journey can be examined.
Recovery. The resilience and recovery However, it is vital to recognize that while
narratives among the IDPs presented a nuanced Herman's theoretical construct lays the
tapestry of emotions and experiences. The groundwork, the firsthand accounts from the
Meranao community's rich cultural and religious Meranao community endow the model with richer
tapestry served as a beacon of hope, guiding them depth and cultural specificity. Their narratives do
through the darkest of times. Their faith was more not merely fit within the prescribed boxes of the
than just a spiritual anchor; it was a source of theory; they add nuance, texture, and a unique
solace, understanding, and communal cohesion. cultural lens to it. This exemplifies the fluidity of
Yet, the road to recovery was fraught with trauma's manifestation and how it is invariably
challenges. It was a dance between moments of influenced by cultural, societal, and individual
progress and setbacks, reflecting the complex factors.
interplay of personal and communal healing
127
Furthermore, the external societal factors study underscores the vital need for such
exacerbating trauma, as described by the approaches, emphasizing the uniqueness of each
Meranao IDPs, gain validation from Yehuda's community's experiences and needs. Tailored
research (2002). Yehuda's emphasis on the role of interventions based on these findings can pave the
societal perceptions and stigmatization in way for more effective rehabilitation strategies.
intensifying trauma postulates that external The results from this research bring to light the
conditions can significantly shape and influence complex intersectionality of culture, religion, and
the trauma's trajectory. The Meranao IDPs' trauma in shaping the Meranao community's
experiences of marginalization and stigmatization experiences post-displacement. As trauma is not
further underscore this assertion, offering a real- merely a psychological or individual experience
world manifestation of Yehuda's theoretical but is deeply embedded in socio-cultural contexts,
claims. understanding its nuances is pivotal. Recognizing
This interplay between the theoretical and the role of cultural and religious beliefs in shaping
empirical – between the established trauma perceptions, coping mechanisms, and recovery
models and the lived realities of the Meranao IDPs paths becomes essential.
– is instrumental. It underscores the importance of For practitioners, especially those in the mental
grounding therapeutic and rehabilitative health and psycho-social support domains, these
interventions in both a robust theoretical findings highlight the importance of adopting an
framework and the nuanced understanding of the approach that integrates cultural and religious
affected community's cultural and societal context. competence. Interventions that might work for one
In synthesizing these perspectives, there lies the community might not necessarily resonate with
potential for devising strategies that are not only another due to these intricate cultural and religious
effective but also deeply respectful and empathetic intricacies. Hence, standard intervention models
to the affected individuals' unique experiences. might need to be reevaluated and reframed to
align with Meranao's unique context.
Strengths and Limitations. One of this study's Policymakers and organizations, in their bid to
primary strengths is the depth of insight garnered provide support to such affected communities,
from the intimate narratives of the Meranao IDPs. need to be acutely aware of these findings.
Their accounts provide a rare window into the Programs that disregard the cultural and religious
complex interplay of experiencing, processing, fabric might inadvertently exacerbate trauma or
and recovering from trauma within the Meranao hinder recovery. The emphasis should be on co-
context. Yet, potential limitations cannot be creating support strategies with the community to
overlooked. The constraints of the sample size ensure their relevance and effectiveness.
might limit generalizability. While the researcher's Furthermore, this study amplifies the urgency
interpretative lens enriched the analysis, it might for culturally sensitive approaches. In an era
also have introduced inherent biases. marked by global mobility and ensuing
displacement crises, acknowledging the
Implications. The study's findings shed light on distinctiveness of each community's lived
the relationship between culture, religion, and experiences is more crucial than ever. Rather than
trauma. Practitioners, policymakers, and support generalizing trauma and recovery, the focus
organizations can gain crucial insights for should shift towards understanding and
formulating culturally sensitive interventions. This
128
addressing the unique challenges, strengths, and and recovery processes across different
needs of each affected community. socio-cultural contexts.
Consequently, interventions grounded in the Reflexivity. Interpreting the data requires

cultural and religious nuances of the Meranao careful and mindful consideration. The
community, as revealed by this study, can serve researcher's cultural background, inherent biases,
as a prototype for developing targeted and and previous understandings undoubtedly played
effective rehabilitation strategies. By ensuring that a role in the interpretative process. It's essential to
support systems and therapeutic approaches are recognize that the final narrative is shaped not just
tailored to resonate with their beliefs, values, and by the IDPs' lived experiences, but also by the lens
experiences, there's a higher likelihood of through which the researcher viewed them. This
facilitating genuine healing and restoration. intertwined nature of interpretation is inherent in
qualitative studies, emphasizing the co-
Recommendations for Future Research. constructed nature of the presented findings.
Further research could probe the dynamics of
resilience and recovery among various displaced This study examined the profound
communities in different cultural backdrops. psychological and socio-economic effects of the
Diversifying data collection methods or focusing 2017 Marawi Siege on the Meranao community in
on specific subgroups within IDP communities the southern Philippines. Employing Interpretative
might yield richer insights. As global displacement Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) and anchored in
events rise, understanding the nuanced Herman's Trauma Theory, this research provides
experiences of affected populations becomes insights into the trauma experiences of six
even more paramount, and this study paves the internally displaced persons (IDPs) from the
way for deeper explorations. Sagonsongan area. It identifies key themes such
For Further Research, longitudinal studies as the dislocation of families, severe economic
can be conducted to trace the trajectory of trauma difficulties, ongoing trauma, extreme fatigue, and
and recovery over extended periods, which would compromised safety, offering an in-depth
offer insights into the evolving nature of trauma understanding of the relationship between forced
responses and the efficacy of recovery migration, cultural displacement, and collective
mechanisms. Future studies could integrate memory in the aftermath of conflict. The study
various data sources, such as medical records or emphasizes the necessity for interventions that
corroborative interviews, to validate self-reported are sensitive to the cultural nuances and resilience
narratives and minimize recall bias. of the Meranao IDPs, making a significant
Interventions aimed at assisting contribution to the dialogue on trauma and
communities like the Meranao IDPs should be recovery in contexts of post-conflict.
tailored to respect and incorporate cultural
traditions and values. This would ensure the CONCLUSION
interventions are both effective and well-received This study's result reveals the profound and
by the community. Investigations should be
nuanced traumas experienced by Meranao
extended to other communities impacted by internally displaced persons (IDPs) following the
similar conflicts to obtain a comprehensive 2017 Marawi Siege. The research, employing
understanding of trauma's diverse manifestations
129
Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis, implementation ensures programs address
showed how familial displacement, economic their specific needs and cultural context.
instability, pervasive trauma, and diminished
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AUTHORS’ PROFILE
Smith, J. A., & Osborn, M. (2003). Interpretative
phenomenological analysis. In J. A. Smith (Ed.), Dr. Mary Rachelle Reyes Wapano
Qualitative psychology: A practical guide to research earned her Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from
methods (pp. 53–80). Sage. Ateneo de Manila. She serves as the Associate
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/32486632 Dean of the Office of Graduate Studies and as
7_Interpretive_Phenomenological_Analysis_An_Ap Professor at Xavier University-Ateneo de
propriate_Methodology_for_Educational_Research Cagayan. Her research interests lie in Positive and
Smith, J. A., Flowers, P., & Larkin, M. (2009). Clinical Psychology, delving into topics such as
Interpretative phenomenological analysis: Theory, emotional intelligence, mental health, resilience,
method and research. self-efficacy, and success. Beyond her academic
Sage. is https://www.sagepub.com/en- work, Dr. Wapano has facilitated numerous
gb/eur/interpretative-phenomenological- trainings in these areas. She actively advocates
analysis/book250130 for the integration of emotional intelligence in
various domains, including leadership, teaching,
Steel, Z., Chey, T., Silove, D., Marnane, C., Bryant, R.
parenting, relationships, and professional
A., & van Ommeren, M. (2009). Association of
torture and other potentially traumatic events with development.
mental health outcomes among populations
Soraimie Dagalangit, a graduate of
exposed to mass conflict and displacement. JAMA,
302(5), 537-549. Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, is
https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/18 presently affiliated with the National Commission
4348 on Muslim Filipinos under the Peacebuilding and
Conflict Resolution Division. Her research
Tedeschi, R. G., & Calhoun, L. G. (2004). Posttraumatic interests primarily revolve around mental health of
growth: Conceptual foundations and empirical
minorities and the role of faith in understanding
evidence. Psychological Inquiry, 15(1), 1-18. doi:
and addressing the unique needs of minority
10.1207/s15327965pli1501_01
groups. She is dedicated to exploring how cultural
Victor, B. (2008). The burden of chronic sorrows: sensitivity and religious beliefs influence mental
Exploration of refugee well-being and the role of health interventions and support systems. Ms
sorrow and grief. Refugee Survey Quarterly, 27(1), Dagalangit aims to bridge gaps in mental health
16-38. EBSCOhost: services for minority populations, advocating for
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17518872/ inclusive practices that respect and integrate
WHO. (2011). Ethical standards and procedures for cultural a
research with human beings. World Health
nd religious dimensions into care.
Organization.
132
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commons.org/licenses/by/4).

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From Siege To Survival Exploring The Multi-Faceted Traumas of Meranao Internally Displaced Persons

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IOER INTERNATIONAL MULTIDISCIPLINARY RESEARCH JOURNAL, VOL. 6, NO.

FROM SIEGE TO SURVIVAL: EXPLORING THE MULTI-FACETED

MARY RACHELLE R. WAPAÑO1, SORAIMIE P DAGALANGIT-PUNDATO2

Keywords: Meranao community, internally displaced persons, Marawi Siege, trauma

landscape of devastation. While the physical

Consequently, interventions grounded in the Reflexivity. Interpreting the data requires

P – ISSN 2651 - 7701 | E – ISSN 2651 – 771X | www.ioer-imrj.com

Copyright of this article is retained by the

P – ISSN 2651 - 7701 | E – ISSN 2651 – 771X | www.ioer-imrj.com

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